Mayor Buis weighs in on COVID-19 impact on the village

Foremost Mayor Lorne Buis

By Justin Seward

Commenator/Courier

Foremost has not taken any substantial measures amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
“As taxes are usually due Sept. 30, and following the Government of Alberta requirements we have not gone forward with any type of program with these. Utilities are being dealt with on a case-by-case basis. The residents can apply to the village for a 90-day deferral,” said Mayor Lorne Buis.
Taxes will not be affected because those funds are needed for the daily operations of the village, he added.
Village council has been busy focusing on the list of shovel ready projects for if and when they do happen.
“Council and our staff have been busy updating the projects that the government requested to be submitted as shovel ready, and are hopeful that some or all of their projects are approved and can go forward,” he said.
Buis says most of the businesses were deemed essential and a few will be hit hard by the pandemic.
“It is my feeling that the majority of our businesses are considered essential, (For example) the Hardware store, grocery store (and) Ag supply outlets etc. The ones hit most are the hair salons and the recreational facilities as they have been closed for the time being,” said Buis.
He said “Foremost is a very close knit community where we pride ourselves in looking after each other. This has been very prevalent during this pandemic as neighbours, friends and families are always checking on each other, and if need are always willing to assist someone that may need a little help.”

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